Holden Beach Family Photographer
Holden Beach family photographer capturing golden hour beach sessions and real, unposed connection during your vacation. Sessions from $795.
It all starts with a photographer who gets it!
start the conversation
I've been coming to Holden Beach since 2010. My mother-in-law owns a house on the island, and it's become our family's home away from home. Every summer I set aside a handful of dates to photograph families visiting the island too, and I'd love for yours to be one of them.
As a mom of three, I know how fast these seasons move and how important it is to capture the little things that matter most. The looks, the giggles, the way your kid still fits on your lap (barely). I’ll help your family relax, play, and be yourselves, so your photos reflect who you really are.
Because the best photos aren’t perfect. They’re personal.
Hi, I'm Kate!
This Gets to Be Easy!
Start by filling out my inquiry form. I’ll personally follow up to answer your questions, talk through your vision, and help you choose the experience that best fits this season. From the very first message, my goal is to make this feel simple and supported.
Reach Out
01.
Before your session, we’ll go over the plan together. From outfits to timing to what your kids can expect, I’ll make sure everything feels simple so you can relax and enjoy the time with your family.
Plan with Guidance
02.
This is the easy part. You show up, hold your kids close, laugh, and just be together. No awkward posing, no pressure. I’ll take care of the rest and capture your family exactly as you are in this season.
Feel at Home in Front of the Camera
03.
From our first conversation to the moment you're choosing the images that will live on your walls, I’ll walk with you through every step
kristin c.
Kate is amazing!! She is always able to capture the most beautiful photos and moments of our family. We have done several sessions with her including 1st birthday, glitter minis and fall minis. Can’t wait for the next one! Highly recommend!
Nicole n.
Kate has been wonderful to work with setting up our appointment, talking me through my questions and concerns. The extra services she provides like the client closet are such thoughtful touches....She wants you to be your best on the day of the shoot and is happy to accomodate that. I am so greatful for the experience we have had.
We’ve had family photos taken by Kate five times now, and every session has been wonderful. She has a true gift with babies—patient, gentle, and always able to capture those sweet candid moments. She’s also fantastic at making family photos feel natural and fun (never stiff or stressful!). I really appreciate how flexible she is—if you share what you’re thinking, she brings it to life beautifully. We’re always so happy with the photos we get back!
Jimmy s.
Kate was affordable, on time, efficient with taking the pictures, and even faster with getting back to us. Overall great experience!
andrea p.
Kate is always fantastic with our family! She is kind, sensitive and patient which I think is very important. Our photos turned out great a 2nd year in a row now! We will definitely keep using her.
Ali U.
Thinking we found our forever photographer with Kate! She is amazing at what she does, never disappoints!
Why Book a Holden Beach Session
Vacation photos hit different when they're not just another family holding hands on the sand. I spend most of my time capturing families back home in Pennsylvania, and I bring that same relaxed, connection-first approach to the beach. No stiff posing, no forced smiles. Just golden light, real moments, and a gallery you'll actually want to print.
Sessions typically happen right on the beach at sunset, timed for that soft evening light Holden Beach is known for. I'll help you plan wardrobe, coordinate the group, and guide everyone so it feels easy, even with kids who'd rather be in the water.
plus, thoughtful options like:
Flexibility is built in!
Sessions allow space for snack breaks, outfit changes, and big feelings so nothing ever feels rushed.
Don't forget your fur babies!
Your pets are always welcome to join your session, because they’re part of your family story too.
Locations that work for real families.
I’ll help you choose an in-home or Central PA outdoor location that fits your family and this season of life.
I'm only on the island for a limited window each summer, so sessions are first come, first served. Reach out with your vacation dates as early as you can to check availability.
If I am already down for a stay, there is not an extra charge. However if I am traveling specifically for your session, yes, there's a $150 travel fee in addition to the session fee, which covers the cost of getting down there.
I'll send you a style guide once you book, but neutrals, soft blues, and warm tones photograph beautifully against the beach.
That’s completely normal and totally expected! I’ll meet your kids right where they are, and together, we’ll find ways for them to be themselves and have fun. Sitting still and saying "cheese" isn’t my style. Instead, we’ll play games, chat about their favorite things, and capture who they truly are in this moment!
Every time has been exceptional. She goes above and beyond, listening to you, making your visions and wishes come to life but also suggesting and guiding to make your pictures absolutely stunning.
Amber S.
FAQ
Do you charge extra to shoot at Holden Beach?
When are you in Holden Beach?
What should we wear?
What if my kids won't sit still or listen?
How do we book?
How many people can be in the session?
Any size works, from immediate family to a full multi-generational group. Let me know your group size when you reach out so we can plan timing and locations that work for everyone.
Reach out through my contact page with your vacation dates and group size, and I'll let you know what's available.
Your Family, Your Story—Captured Forever
Years from now, you won’t remember the chaos of the day, but you will remember the way your kids fit in your arms, the laughter, the love. Let’s freeze this moment in time before it’s just a memory.
Ready to book? Click below to start planning your family session today.
start the conversation
i'm excited to hear from you!
contact me to be your holden beach family photographer
Thanks for stopping by! My studio is located off of I-83 in York Haven, PA (York County) and I travel throughout Central PA for in home newborn sessions. You can reach me by filling out the form below and I will send you a follow-up email within 24 hours. I look forward to speaking with you!
let's create
memories
beautiful
yay!
You're one step closer to an incredible photography experience & absolutely stunning family memories!
NOW WHAT?!
You'll receive a response back within 24 hours. If you don't see something within that time frame, be sure to check your spam!
E-mails come from kate@katemccordphotography.com if you want to add that to your address book to avoid sending me to spam.
